Karuizawa Resort One Day Course Around the Station

Karuizawa is a highland resort reachable by bullet train. In the cool, crisp air you can enjoy shopping, strolling, and visiting cafes. Even without a car you can spend a full day around the station, making this an easygoing day trip plan.

Course Route

10:00 Start at Karuizawa Station After arriving by bullet train, head first to the shopping mall connected to the station and enjoy the outlet stores. 11:30 Old Karuizawa Ginza Snack on jam, bread, and soft serve along the retro shopping street, where the atmosphere of a summer retreat dating back to the Meiji era lingers. 13:00 Lunch at a cafe Take a break at a cafe or bakery surrounded by trees. The fresh highland air feels wonderful. 14:30 Stroll at Kumoba Pond Walk around this beautiful pond that mirrors the surrounding trees. It changes with the seasons and is a popular photo spot. 16:00 Return to the station Head home on an evening bullet train, and do not forget to pick up some souvenirs.

Highlights

Old Karuizawa Ginza is a historic shopping street long loved as a summer retreat. Kumoba Pond has a quiet waterside path that is especially lovely in the fresh green and autumn leaf seasons. The calm mood of the churches and villa district is another charm unique to Karuizawa.

Access and Tips

Karuizawa Station is served by the Hokuriku Shinkansen and is easy to reach from both Tokyo and Nagano. The area around the station can be covered on foot, by loop bus, or by rental bicycle. The elevation is high and it stays cool even in summer, so bring a light jacket to be safe.

A Quick Tip

Old Karuizawa is a little way from the station, so a bus or rental bicycle makes the trip there easier. Popular shops get crowded, so it helps to have lunch at an off peak time.